Lovage is the common name of Levisticum officinale species, from Umbelliferae family.
Also known as: sea parsley, livèche.
Lovage plants in a garden
Image credit: hipherb
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Features of Lovage
Spread to 36 inches. Zone 5-8. Height to 72 inches. Perennial.
hollow stem.
celery-scented, diamond-shaped, pinnate leaf.
greenish-yellow, tiny, umbel flower in summer.
Growing Lovage
- by root division during spring and autumn.
- by seed during autumn.
- protection: Protect the plant from strong wind.
- thinning: 24 inches apart.
- transplant: 24 inches apart.
- trimming: Trim to encourage new growth.
Using Lovage
Culinary
Dairy products
Add to cheese. (Use leaf)
Drink
Add to alcoholic drinks such as cordials. (Use seed)
Meat
Rub on poultry meats. (Use leaf)
Starches
Add to rice, bread, potatoes, and biscuits. (Use seed)
Vegetable
Steam young shoots and stems. (Use stem)
Medicinal
Tea
A tea to ease flatulence and digestive problems, and may also relieve rheumatism. (Use seed, leaf)
Traditional Remedies
- Digestive » indigestion, flatulence
- Muscle And Joint » muscle pain, joint pain, arthritis, sprain, tendinitis
- Other » detoxification, body odor
Traditional remedies may or may not be supported by scientific evidences.
Cautions
- Conditions » Avoid during pregnancy . Not suitable if having kidney problems.
- Please consult with your doctor before using lovage for health related purposes.
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